passing on authentic faith

And he said, “O LORD, God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today and show steadfast love to my master Abraham.”

Genesis 24:12

I’ve always loved this story of how Abraham’s servant was led by God to the very household of Abraham’s own extended family to find a proper bride for Isaac. Yeah... I know... arranged marriages sound odd and archaic to 21st century ears... but a couple of the underlying spiritual lessons this event teaches are pretty powerful.

First, there is the picture of consistent disciple making that is revealed in Abraham’s household. This trusted servant is obedient to his master Abraham. He has a faith much like his master in the very same powerful, promise-keeping God. He prayed to God. He believed in God. He is particularly quick in the story to find strength in the steadfast love (grace) of God. His prayer of faith, that God would reveal and provide Isaac’s bride in a very specific way, is clear indication that Abraham led his entire household, including trusted staff and servants, to believe in the same God, worshiping with the same tenacious faith, that Abraham modeled to them.

Secondly, there is grateful praise shown in this servant. Later, when God does indeed provide Rebekah as a willing long-distance bride, the servant gives all praise to God (Genesis 24:26, 52). His worship is authentic, just as his faith is. Abraham had properly led his household to worship God, not just in daily ritual, but in grateful day-to-day trust, provision, and guidance.

O Lord,

You still lead us. You still provide for us. You still answer prayers and You love for us to bring to You our very specific needs. We must do so now even as we navigate forward beyond the current disruption of our days. You work in marvelous ways. You always show to us Your steadfast love. May we trust You, believe You, ask from You, and worship You in ways where we will praise You as You do Your work among us.

Amen